She was white, fluffy, and only 11 inches at the shoulder, but Carmel took guard duty seriously. She surveilled the streets through every available window and conscientiously patrolled the back yard. Some high-pitched barking warned people, dogs, deer, and lesser animals to beware.

Carmel was proud: in 8 years with her people, nothing dangerous had crossed the line. Imagine her surprise when a large buck leaped out of the shrubbery and came straight for her. She ran for her life; her speed and quick cornering took her to safety.